Mumbai: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has initiated a probe against some officials of Regional Plant Quarantine Station (RPQS) which serves as a critical checkpoint for plant and plant product imports/exports through Mumbai ports and airports, based on information about alleged collusive corruption by the department officials by taking money in lieu of doing work, from the importer/ exporter either directly or through CHAs.
The RPQS office conducts mandatory phytosanitary inspection of all imported plant materials, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and plant products to prevent entry of harmful pests and diseases. Officers examine shipments for compliance with phytosanitary certificates and Indian quarantine regulations. The office issues phytosanitary certificates for plant exports, certifying that exported materials are free from quarantine pests and diseases. This involves pre-shipment inspection, laboratory testing when required, and endorsement of health certificates.
When pest infestations or diseases are detected, the office orders appropriate quarantine treatments such as fumigation, heat treatment, or cold treatment. The office conducts pest identification, disease diagnosis, and residue analysis through its laboratory facilities. Scientific examination of samples helps determine appropriate quarantine measures and treatment protocols.
"Information was received that some officials from RPQS demand payments to expedite inspection and clearance processes, particularly for time-sensitive perishable goods. Importers facing demurrage charges may resort to paying bribes to avoid delays. The officials selectively inspect certain consignments while allowing others to pass without proper examination in exchange for monetary considerations," the CBI officials stated.
The information further revealed that some officials unnecessarily prescribe expensive treatments or recommend specific treatment service providers in exchange for kickbacks. Alternatively, they overlook required treatments for contaminated shipments after receiving bribes. Issuance of phytosanitary certificates without proper inspection for financial gain, officials said.
In order to verify the allegations, a team comprising of CBI officers reached at the Navi Mumbai office of a Container Freight Station (CFS) company for conducting joint surprise check (JSC) on 16.07.2025 and learnt about a person who works for a CHA company who is collecting bribe money on behalf of some officials of RPQS. During JSC, the CHA staffer disclosed that cash amounting to Rs. 2.26 lakh which the JSC team had recovered is the bribe collection from different CHA and their representatives for their routine work.
A case has been registered by the CBI against RPQS officials, CFS company officials and a staffer of a CHA company on charges of criminal conspiracy, bribing of public servant, taking undue advantage to influence public servant by corrupt or illegal means or by exercising personal influence, obtaining undue advantage without consideration and abetment.
